Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a type of tendonitis in the elbow. Athletes who play racquet sports commonly experience this, though it can occur from overuse of the elbow in other sports or other activities.

Unfortunately, whatever exercise or movement caused the tennis elbow, continuing to do that movement will only increase the severity of the symptoms. If you don’t treat it correctly, the pain can be short-lived or continue for years.

What Can Cause Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow triggers pain in the upper forearm and outside of the elbow. This pain is caused by the inflammation of the tendon (the lateral epicondyle), which is the tendon that connects the forearm muscles. This tendon allows the wrist and arm to bend. When you have tennis elbow, any straightening of those joints causes pain.

Most individuals with tennis elbow have some neck discomfort as well. Any misalignment of the spine that interrupts nervous system communication can cause inflammation in the tendons and lead to tennis elbow.

How Can Chiropractors Help Tennis Elbow?

Rest is essential when it comes to reducing tennis elbow pain, especially short-term. For a long-term solution, you must get proper care for the tendon that is inflamed. Taking anti-inflammatory drugs or bracing the area isn’t going to help heal the root of the problem.

Our chiropractor can suggest some treatment options to help you recover from tennis elbow. If you have any questions about chiropractic care in San Rafael or if you want to make an appointment, you can also give us a call at (415) 223-9060. We at Neck, Back, Arm, Leg and Headache Pain Relief Clinic of Marin will be happy to hear from you.